Leh and Kargil bodies submit non-negotiable points to MHA officials

Leaders from Ladakh engaged in talks with Union home ministry officials on Wednesday, presenting a list of "non-negotiable" demands, according to officials familiar with the matter. Prominent representatives from the Leh Apex Body and the Kargil Development Council participated in the meeting. Sajad Kargili, a Kargil Democratic Alliance member who attended, stated that the leaders submitted their important and non-negotiable points to the government, emphasizing constitutional safeguards for Ladakh and a demand for the unconditional withdrawal of cases against those affected by violent clashes on September 24, along with compensation for victims and their families.

Ladakh, a Union Territory established on August 5, 2019, following the abrogation of Article 370 that granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir, has been protesting for constitutional safeguards since its creation. The Union home ministry formed a high-powered committee under minister of state for home Nityanand Rai in 2023 to address Ladakh's unique culture and language preservation.

Last month, Ladakh's Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena announced the formation of Autonomous Hill Councils in all seven districts, including five recently established ones.